Novel Sorbents for Air Separation

79212S Gasification-based power generation processes offer the possibility of economical performance, with higher thermal efficiency and better environmental performance than competing technologies. However, the full commercialization of gasification-based technologies requires additional improvements to reduce capital and operating costs. One such improvement involves the use of oxygen instead of air for gasification. This project will develop a low cost, high capacity sorbent for air separation to supply the gasification process with low cost oxygen. Phase I will prepare various sorbent formulations and screen them to determine their capacity to absorb oxygen under representative conditions. Based on performance results, a preliminary design of the air separation system and estimate will be conducted and estimates of its size and cost will be made. An engineering assessment will compare the system to alternative processes. Commercial Applications and other Benefits as described by the awardee: Oxygen, a strategically important chemical with a $2.0 billion market value, supports the combustion of fuels that supply heat, light, and power. A cost-effective air separation technology should find immediate use in the U.S. energy manufacturing and chemical industries.